More Artists Exit Kid Rock’s ‘Rock the Country’ Festival as Backlash Grows Over MAGA Links
Several performers have pulled out of Kid Rock’s upcoming Rock the Country music festival following mounting backlash over its perceived political ties and “MAGA” branding.
The 55-year-old rocker unveiled the lineup for the multi-city festival in mid-January. The event, scheduled to run from May through September 2026 across various U.S. locations, quickly earned the nickname “MAGA Music Fest” online due to its country-heavy roster, patriotic messaging, and associations with artists seen by some fans as aligned with conservative politics.
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Ludacris Distances Himself
Rapper Ludacris was among the first names to disappear from the promotional poster after fans questioned his inclusion.
On January 16, a spokesperson for Ludacris told Rolling Stone that his appearance was the result of “a mix-up,” explaining: “Lines got crossed, and he wasn’t supposed to be on there.”
Social media users had flooded his posts with confusion and criticism. One Instagram user wrote, “Luda, bro, what are you doing? I’m so confused.” Others urged him to publicly clarify his stance within 48 hours.
Morgan Wade and Carter Faith Also Exit
According to Billboard, country singer Morgan Wade also withdrew from the festival. Her name reportedly vanished from the poster, and her management confirmed she would no longer be performing.
Rising country artist Carter Faith appeared to confirm her own exit when replying to a fan inquiry online with: “I’m not anymore!”
Other Artists Facing Fan Pressure
Singer Jelly Roll has also faced backlash from fans disappointed by his inclusion in the lineup. Posts on Threads and Instagram questioned his involvement, with some fans saying they were “heartbroken” and others claiming they were not surprised.
The festival is not officially branded as political, but critics argue its tone, messaging, and performer associations give it a strong ideological identity.
Organizers Frame It as Patriotic Celebration
Kid Rock previously described the festival as more than just a concert series, calling it “a movement.” In a statement, he said:
“Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival; it’s a movement. In 2026, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, this is a place for hard-working, God-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom, music, and the party of the year.”
Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment, emphasized that the festival aims to spotlight communities often overlooked by major tours.
Meanwhile, Shane Quick, president of Live Events, said the 2026 tour would feature “bigger lineups, more intentional fan experiences, and meaningful investments in comfort and production” as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
Growing Pattern of Dropouts
With multiple artists stepping away amid fan pressure, the controversy surrounding Rock the Country appears to be growing rather than fading. Whether additional performers will follow suit remains to be seen as the festival’s launch date approaches.
